PRO TEAM PROFILE: Vastgoedservice Golden Palace

In the first in a series of profiles of the major 'cross teams we talked to the riders of the Vastgoedservice-Golden Palace squad at their launch banquet in Mol, Belgium.

THE Vastgoedservice-Golden Palace team may be new on the pro cyclocross circuit, they officially came into existence on January 1st, 2014, but they are certainly setting out to make a big impression. The official team presentation in an upmarket 'Feestzaal' (or banquet hall) last night (October 9th) was a lavish affair and designed to thank their sponsors as well as introduce the riders and officials.

After a champagne reception it was on to the stage in the main hall where TV presenter Chris Mannaerts quizzed riders and team management about the season ahead. One of the team's main sponsors, Golden Palace also has an interest in a lower division Belgian football club and there was a round of applause when their representative said he favoured cyclocross over football. Belgian soccer international Timmy Simons (the second-most capped player with 93 caps) is also a co-owner of the Vastgoedservice-Golden Palace team

"That way I can push my limits without trying to push," said Van Aert. "In addition, I will also have some" loose "crosses with the pros start. During the World Cup, some Superprestige Games and the World Cup the other hand, I stay in my own age group (U23) out another season. That way I can do with the frequency of the clock put my rainbow jersey honor.

Van Aert will benefit from Vastgoedservice-Golden Palace, the new team he joined on March 1st, having a road racing squad and being able to participate in a number of stage races.